The Multi-Level Study of a Pediatric Population Attending a Teaching Hospital in South-South Nigeria (MuSPePATHS), published in Ukwuru Public Health in October 2024, uncovers critical findings about the over-reliance on antibiotics for treating infectious diseases in children, a trend that could have long-term consequences for public health.

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The study focused on 1,000 pediatric patients, with data showing that 62.2% of these children received antibiotics, primarily for conditions linked to pathogenic diseases. Gentamycin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, was the most prescribed drug, administered to 181 children, while cephalosporins were the most commonly used class of antibiotics. This widespread use of antibiotics raises concerns about the risk of antibiotic resistance, a growing global health issue that threatens the effectiveness of common treatments.

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One of the study's key findings is the link between antibiotic use and certain demographic factors. Children who were not attending school were more likely to receive antibiotics, while those who were admitted as in-patients also had higher antibiotic usage. Additionally, children below the age of five presented with the highest rates of antibiotic administration, reflecting their vulnerability to infectious diseases.

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The study highlights the dangers of over-prescription, particularly with combination therapies, where some children received multiple antibiotics to treat concurrent conditions. Though antibiotics are often necessary to combat infections, this over-reliance can weaken the immune system and contribute to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a future threat to healthcare.

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Researchers call for immediate interventions, including health education and promotion efforts aimed at reducing the incidence of infectious diseases. By improving preventive measures and educating parents and caregivers on the judicious use of antibiotics, the reliance on these drugs can be mitigated. The study underscores the need for public health initiatives to focus on reducing exposure to pathogens in young children, thereby lowering the demand for antibiotics.

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As antibiotic resistance becomes an increasing concern globally, this study serves as a wake-up call for the healthcare system in Nigeria to prioritize preventive strategies and safeguard the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.